Addressing a sit-in at Liaquat Bagh against the petroleum levy, Hafiz Naeem said the government was insulting millions of Pakistanis by repeatedly increasing fuel prices.
He said the Jamaat-e-Islami had submitted proposals for abolishing the petroleum levy, but the government had failed to respond seriously. He accused the authorities of showing no willingness to engage meaningfully in negotiations while continuing to raise petrol prices.
“We will surround Islamabad on September 20,” Hafiz Naeem said, warning that attempts to block protesters with containers would not stop them from reaching the capital.
He demanded the complete withdrawal of what he called the “levy” and “extortion tax,” saying there was no room for compromise on the issue.
Hafiz Naeem claimed that petroleum products were subject to more than 30% in taxes and alleged that oil companies were being given undue benefits while the burden of economic policies was being shifted onto ordinary citizens. He claimed that taxes on petrol had reached Rs140 per litre.
Earlier, addressing a women’s demonstration in Islamabad against the petroleum levy, the JI chief said conditions would not change unless people raised their voices against what he described as unjust policies.
He accused the ruling elite of controlling the country’s system while enjoying exemptions and privileges, saying ordinary people were struggling to afford even two meals a day.
Hafiz Naeem also criticised government spending and alleged that billions of rupees were being spent on official travel and other privileges while citizens were facing higher taxes and living costs.
He further criticised Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz over education and government spending, making several allegations regarding public schools and official expenditure.